Dada XYZ. Shelby Pizzarro. ATC

Hans Richter's Dada XYZ, 1948

As a creative person, what is essential to you?  "XYZ", an Artist Trading Card call from the Carlisle Arts Learning Center in Carlisle, PA. had me thinking. My Muse was on hiatus. I felt stranded when I opened my book on the Dada Movement, and received inspiration from Hugo Ball's Sound Poems.

It was what I needed to kick-start me into action. So it felt natural to explore the world of Dada through the eyes of other members. And what could be more appropriate than to read Hans Richter's "Dada XYZ".  The piece opens with: "I never understood Hugo Ball very well."

I photocopied the photo of Hans Richter and attached it to illustration board. The text in the background is Richter's thoughts written in 1948. It is published in Robert Motherwell's anthology of Dada writings, The Dada Painters and Poets. I finished the card with sponged metallic acrylic paint. At the end of the exhibit this card will also be traded.

Inspired by the Dadaists, not understanding is the essential quality I look for in Art and in Life. Not understanding keeps me thinking...keeps me investigating...keeps my lines to my Muse open. And when I do finally understand, even if not fully, it can lead me to some very interesting, unexpected and inspiring places.

My question to you is...what is Essential to You?

Sisterhood of the Muse

Sun, Moon, Stars. ATC. Shelby Pizzarro

For You, The Sun, Moon, and Stars - ATC 

For quite a few of us on the East Coast of the United States, this has been a glorious Holiday weekend...three days away from the routine of work, wonderful local events to share with friends and family, and best of all, weather sent to us from the Gods.

The ambiance was just the thing I needed to unlock the way to my Muse. Spurred on by my collection of quotes and saying I've collected over the years, I kept coming back to one:

"May the Sun warm you, and the Moon restore you, and Stars light your path"

Sitting under the pergola, listening to the birds sing, caressed by the warm Summer breeze, my Artist Trading Cards took shape. The substrate is illustration board. The background is a mixture of sponged Distress Inks of various hues. I stencilled and rubber stamped the patterns in metallic acrylic paint, dusted with Perfect Pearls to add a bit of shimmer. The inspirational quote cut from vintage paper finished the cards.

How often, we as Artists, look to Nature for inspiration. From the simple elegance of a sprouting seedling to the infinite wonder we experience when gazing at the night sky, it is all there for us. We just need to take the time to stop, look, and listen.

My wish is a simple one. May your Summer be filled with Sunshine, Moonbeams, and Starlight...and those you love to share them.

Sisterhood of the Muse

Life Is A Dream. ATC. Shelby Pizzarro

Life Is A Dream. ATC

I like to dream. I like the word.

Dream.

It rolls, it meanders, it drips off the tongue with power and eloquence and the promise of mystery, moonlight, adventure. It's the name on the door we open to liberate us. It allows us to feel, to imagine what can be, if only we become fully aware.

"Life is a Dream...Realize it.", is a passage attributed to Mother Teresa I read in the Grand Circle Corporation book of quotes. It inspired this Artist Trading Card.

The substrate is illustration board. The background a mixture of Distress Ink and acrylic paint. I stencilled a Nouveau pattern in gold metallic paint. A strip of art paper, the vintage photo, and rubber stamping of various designs finished the card.

Do you dream? Do you close your eyes and allow your Muse to take you to a place your heart knows is flawless? Realize your dreams. Live the life you desire.

Sisterhood of the Muse

Mini's for a cause by Jane Albin

"Oscar"      -                      "Pittsburgh City Deer"

Artist Trading Cards: Watercolor and Ink

The 'Lewisburg Ice Festival' is fast approaching.  With this winter, it could be a good one. 
The event is this coming weekend: January 31- February 2, 2014

Brushstrokes, local art supply store, extraordinaire, will be hosting its 
annual “Warm Your Hearts - Pets in Need” donation event to benefit seven of our local animal rescues.  
 Old blankets, towels, dog or cat items, and any other useful items are collected at their 340 Market Street location.  Any cash donation over $25 gets a tiny original artist card. 
Above are two of mine being donated for the cause.  

http://www.lewisburgpa.com/calendar/eighth-annual-heart-of-lewisburg-ice-festival